ISLAMABAD, Jun 8 (ABC):Pakistan Railways is advancing plans for the $1.639 billion upgrade of the Landhi–Rohri section of Main Line-1 (ML-1), one of the country’s key rail corridors. According to official documents, groundbreaking for the project is targeted for October 2026 as authorities move forward with technical, environmental, and procurement requirements.
What is the Landhi–Rohri ML-1 upgrade?
The project involves the modernization of a 450-kilometre railway section connecting Landhi in Karachi with Rohri in Sindh. The corridor forms part of the broader ML-1 network, Pakistan’s main north-south railway route that links Karachi with major cities across the country.
Planned upgrades include the rehabilitation of 32 railway stations and 551 bridges and culverts. The project also includes the installation of modern railway signaling systems designed to improve train operations and safety.
Among the technologies planned are Auto Block Signaling and Centralized Block Interlocking (CBI), systems that help manage train movements more efficiently and reduce operational risks.
Why does the project matter?
The Landhi–Rohri section is a critical segment of Pakistan’s rail network, carrying both freight and passenger traffic between Karachi and other parts of the country.
Upgrading the corridor is expected to increase rail capacity, improve service reliability, and support faster movement of goods and passengers. Improved rail infrastructure can also contribute to more efficient logistics and strengthen transport connectivity between major economic centers.
What work is included?
In addition to station and track-related improvements, the project includes the upgrading and grade separation of level crossings between Landhi and Hyderabad. Grade separation typically involves constructing overpasses or underpasses to reduce interactions between road and rail traffic.
The project scope also includes climate risk assessment studies, environmental and social safeguard measures, and land acquisition and resettlement planning where required.
What environmental and social reviews are planned?
According to project documents, Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS) surveys and planning activities are expected to be completed by August 2026.
The design review by the Pakistan Railways Foundation (PRF) consultant and approval of environmental and social plans by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are targeted for December 2026.
These reviews are intended to assess the project’s potential environmental and social impacts and establish mitigation measures before major construction activities proceed.
What happens next?
Project documents indicate that contractor hiring, retro financing arrangements, and groundbreaking activities are scheduled for October 2026.
The timeline suggests that Pakistan Railways is moving forward with preparatory work while completing regulatory, environmental, and financing requirements. If the planned schedule is maintained, construction would mark a significant step in the modernization of one of Pakistan’s most important railway corridors.
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